Information processing device, information processing method and information recording medium and system for information processing

ABSTRACT

The object of the present invention is to implement, by a simple arrangement, means for making the same information recording medium function selectively as a product version or as a demo version, and to provide a method of information processing whereby illicit use by a third party can be prevented. In a method of information processing according to the present invention, game software (a CD ROM) on which a game program is stored is inserted into a game device (step A 1 ), and the content of back-up memory is read (step A 2 ). A determination is made as to whether or not license information is written in the back-up memory (step A 3 ) and, if no license information is written therein, the game software is made to function as the demo version (step A 8 ). If license information is written therein, license checking is performed (step A 4 ) and, as a result of the checking, the game software is made to function as the product version or as the demo version (steps A 6,  A 7 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to information processing devicessuch as games devices. In particular, it relates to a security systemwhereby means for altering (for example so as to cause the sameinformation recording medium to selectively function as a demo versionor as the product version) under prescribed conditions the processingcontent of a program stored on an information recording medium, such asgame software, can be implemented by a simple construction and illicituse by a third party can be effectively prevented.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Game software used in game devices is distributed in the marketby being recorded on portable information recording media such as forexample CD ROMs or game cartridges. Such game software may comprise aregular product version which the user uses by obtaining a license fromthe licenser and a demo version (sample version) with the object ofintroducing an outline of the game to the user, subject to restrictionson some of the processing content of the game. By introducing such ademo version on the market, it is made possible for the user to try outthe demo version of the game software, and, if he likes this, to obtaina license from the licenser so as to be able to enjoy the regularproduct.

[0003] However, since, conventionally, the demo version was preparedseparately apart from the regular product version, it was necessary tomanufacture two types of information recording medium in respect of thesame game software. This meant that a large amount of storage space wasrequired for the product, increasing production costs. Also, since itwas necessary to stock two types of product, namely, the product versionand demo version, there were problems such as that it took time before auser could be supplied with the product version after purchasing thedemo version. In view of these circumstances, it was desired to realizemeans for making it the same game software function selectively as aproduct version or as a demo version. In such cases, in particular, itwas desired to realize means for effectively preventing the gamesoftware from being used as the product version by illicit use by athird party.

[0004] Also, the present applicants, in Laid-open Japanese PatentPublication No. H. 11-53183, proposed a technique for altering thesetting of processing content of a game program in accordance with theresults obtained by ascertaining whether the game recording medium wasbeing employed in the user's own game device or was being employed inanother game device. By such a technique, since it becomes possible toproduce a difference in the operating environment by differentiatinggame recording media employed in the user's own game device from gamerecording media employed in other game devices, the value of a gamerecording medium employed solely in the user's own game device can beraised.

[0005] However, with this technique, in order to ascertain whether ornot the game recording medium was being used in the user's own gamedevice, a writable region was provided on the game recording medium, andthe aforesaid decision processing was performed by writingidentification information (for example an ID number) of the recordingmedium in this region. This technique therefore could not be applied toread-only media such as CD ROMs or DVD ROMs, owing to the difficulty ofproviding a writable region. Furthermore, with this prior art technique,there was the risk that the identification information written on thegame recording medium might be rewritten by illicit means to enable itsuse on another game device.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Accordingly, a first object of the present invention is toprovide an information processing device, information processing methodand information recording medium with a simple arrangement whereby theprocessing content of a prescribed program stored on the sameinformation recording medium can be altered under prescribed conditions.

[0007] Also, a second object is to provide an information processingdevice, information processing method and information recording mediumwhereby illicit use by a third party can be prevented.

[0008] Furthermore, a third object of the present invention is toprovide an information processing system, that, without providing awritable region on an information recording medium, can decide whetheror not software recorded on the information recording medium wasprocessed by a user's own information processing terminal and that canrealize by a simple arrangement means for varying the processing contentof the software in accordance with the result of this decision and aninformation processing terminal and server that can be applied to thisinformation processing system.

[0009] Furthermore, a fourth object is to provide an informationrecording medium on which is recorded a procedure to make a computerfunction as an information processing terminal or server as aforesaid.

[0010] The first object of the present invention is solved by aninformation processing device comprising: first means for storage thatstores first identification information that is individual to theinformation processing device; means for reading second identificationinformation that is individual to the information recording medium;second means for storage that stores prescribed information includingoperation restriction of the information recording medium, thirdidentification information individual to some information processingdevice, and fourth identification information individual to someinformation recording medium; and means for restricting the operationcontent of the information recording medium when the firstidentification information and the third identification informationcoincide and the second identification information and the fourthidentification information coincide, in accordance with the prescribedinformation; and for restricting the operation content of theinformation recording medium under a predetermined condition when thefirst identification information and said third identificationinformation do not coincide or the second identification information andthe fourth identification information do not coincide. In particular,the prescribed information including operation restrictions of theinformation recording medium may be information specifying period of useor conditions of use etc. of the information recording medium(hereinbelow in this specification called “license contentinformation”).

[0011] With such an arrangement, the information including licensecontent information, third identification information and fourthidentification information (hereinbelow in this specification called“license information”) is supplied from the licenser to the user. Thislicense information is stored on a suitable recording medium such as forexample a portable storage medium such as back-up memory.

[0012] When an information processing device according to the presentinvention executes a prescribed program (for example a game program)that is recorded on an information recording medium, it determines inaccordance with a prescribed algorithm whether or not the informationrecording medium is one for which a license has been granted(hereinbelow in this specification this is called “license checking”).If, as a result of the license checking, it is determined that theinformation recording medium is one for which a license has beengranted, the information processing device can function to performinformation processing of the information recording medium as a productversion; if it is determined that the information recording medium isone for which a license has not been granted, it can function to performinformation processing of the same information recording mediumselectively as the product version or as a demo version, by subjectingthe program that is stored on the information recording medium toprescribed restrictions.

[0013] The second object of the present invention is solved by sendinglicense information to the information processing device through acommunication circuit from a prescribed terminal device. In particular,preferably the license information is encrypted before being sent. Withsuch an arrangement, illicit diversion of the license information by athird party can be prevented.

[0014] Also, the second means for recording may be a portable recordingmedium that is externally mounted with respect to the informationprocessing device, such as for example back-up memory. By providinglicense information of each individual information recording medium oneach individual portable recording medium, the need to store the licenseinformation in the information processing device is eliminated.

[0015] As a preferred mode of the present invention, the informationrecording medium stores a game program.

[0016] In an information processing method for achieving an object ofthe present invention, processing steps are executed performed invarious means of an information processing device according to thepresent invention.

[0017] An information recording medium for achieving an object of thepresent invention stores a program whereby an information processingmethod according to the present invention is executed in an informationprocessing device.

[0018] An information recording medium as referred to herein recordsinformation (for example a game program) in a recording region of theinformation recording medium by some physical means, and is capable ofprovoking the execution of prescribed functions such as for example agame program by an information processing device such as a game device.Also, the information that is recorded therein is not restricted to agame program but could be for example CD music data or LD video dataetc. The essential is that it should be capable of downloading a programto a computer by some means so as to cause this to execute a prescribedfunction, or cause the computer to reproduce music data or video data.

[0019] For example an information recording medium may include a CD-R,game cartridge, floppy disc, magnetic tape, magneto-optic disc, CD ROM,DVD ROM, DVD RAM, ROM cartridge, RAM cartridge with a battery back-up,flash memory cartridge or non-volatile RAM cartridge etc.

[0020] It may also include a wired communication medium such as atelephone circuit, or communication medium such as a wirelesscommunication medium such as a microwave circuit. The Internet is alsoincluded in communication media as referred to herein.

[0021] An information processing system according to the presentinvention for achieving the above third object comprises a plurality ofinformation processing terminals that read prescribed software recordedon information recording media and execute this, and a server connectedto said information processing terminals through a network and thatmanages the operating environment of processing at the informationprocessing terminals, in which said server mutually associates andstores registration information including first identificationinformation that is individually allocated to each informationprocessing terminal, second identification information that is allocatedbeforehand to each type of software, and third identificationinformation that is allocated to each said information recording mediumin respect of software of the same type such that there is no overlap;said information processing terminal, on executing the software recordedon the information recording medium, transmits said first identificationinformation and second identification information to the server andrequests registration condition confirmation. When it has received saidregistration condition confirmation request, the server looks up theregistration information, and, if a combination that has been sent fromsaid information processing terminal of said first identificationinformation and second identification information coincides with theregistration information, sends to the information processing terminal afirst checking result and sends a second checking result if saidcombination is not present. An information processing terminal that hasreceived said first checking result executes said software under theordinary operating environment, and an information processing terminalthat has received the second checking result sends the thirdidentification information and requests the server to register the thirdidentification information. After it has received this registrationrequest, the server looks up once more the registration condition and,if the third identification information that has been transmitted fromthe information processing terminal is not associated and registered inrespect of any other information processing terminal, associates andregisters this third identification information with said informationprocessing terminal, and sends a first registration result to theinformation processing terminal; and, if the third identificationinformation is associated and registered in respect of any otherinformation processing terminal, or if there is abnormality in at leastany one of the first information, second identification information orthird identification information (such as for example where there issuspicion that these items of identification information have been inputby illicit means or where the number of times of input of theidentification information is more than necessary), sends a secondregistration result to the information processing terminal. After it hasreceived the first registration result, the information processingterminal executes said software under the ordinary operatingenvironment, and, after it has received said second registration result,said information processing terminal executes the software under arestricted operating environment.

[0022] With such a convenient arrangement, even without providing awritable region in the information recording medium, it is possible todetermine whether or not the software that is recorded on theinformation recording medium was processed by the user's own informationprocessing terminal, and to alter the content of software processing inaccordance with the result of this determination. In particular, sincethe registration information of all the information processing terminalsis managed by the server, illicit actions relying on falsifying theidentification information etc. can be prevented, and the setting of theoperating environment at each information processing terminal can bealtered by rewriting the registration information.

[0023] In a preferred mode of the present invention, the informationprocessing terminal reads the software that is recorded on theinformation recording medium and, when it executes this, transmits firstidentification information, second identification information and thirdidentification information to the server and requests confirmation ofthe registration condition. When it has received the registrationcondition confirmation request, the server looks up the registrationinformation, and, if a combination that has been sent from saidinformation processing terminal of said first identification informationand second identification information coincides with the registrationinformation, sends to said information processing terminal a checkingresult to that effect and if said combination is not present, if saidthird identification information is not associated and registered inrespect of any other information processing terminal, associates andregisters this third identification information with this informationprocessing terminal, and sends a first registration result to theinformation processing terminal; and, if the third identificationinformation is associated and registered in respect of any otherinformation processing terminal, or if there is abnormality in at leastany one of the first information, second identification information orthird identification information, sends a second registration result tothe information processing terminal. After it has received said checkingresult or first registration result, the information processing terminalexecutes said software under the ordinary operating environment, and,after it has received said second registration result, said informationprocessing terminal executes said software under a restricted operatingenvironment.

[0024] In the example described above, it was arranged for processing asa registered user (execution of the software under the ordinaryoperating environment) to be performed when the first identificationinformation and second identification information agreed; however, itcould be arranged for processing as a registered user to be performed ifall of the first identification information, second identificationinformation and third identification information agree. With such anarrangement, it is possible to ascertain positively and accuratelywhether or not the software is being used solely in the user's owninformation processing terminal.

[0025] It may be arranged for the information processing terminal, whensending the third identification information to the server, to read thisthird identification information stored beforehand in external memory,and to send this to the server.

[0026] With an information processing terminal according to the presentinvention that achieves the above third object and that reads andexecutes prescribed software recorded on an information recordingmedium, registration information including first identificationinformation allocated individually to the information processingterminal, second identification information allocated beforehand to eachtype of software, and third identification information allocated to eachsaid information recording medium in respect of software of the sametype such that there is no overlap is mutually associated and stored,and when the software is executed the first identification informationand second identification information are sent and a registrationcondition confirmation request is made to a server connected to thisinformation processing terminal through a network. If a checking resultis received to the effect that the combination of the firstidentification information and second identification informationcoincides with registration information managed by the server, saidsoftware is executed under the ordinary operating environment; if achecking result is received to the effect that this combination does notexist, third identification information is sent and a registrationrequest of the third identification information is made to the server.If a registration result to the effect that registration was performedcorrectly is received, said software is executed under the ordinaryoperating environment, but, if registration was not performed correctly,said software is executed under a restricted operating environment.

[0027] In a preferred mode of the present invention, an informationprocessing terminal, when it executes said software, sends firstidentification information, second identification information, and thirdidentification information and makes a registration conditionconfirmation request to a server connected thereto through a network. Ifa checking result is received to the effect that the combination of saidfirst identification information, second identification information andthird identification information coincides with registration informationmanaged by the server, said software is executed under the ordinaryoperating environment; if a registration result is received to theeffect that, the third identification information being unregistered inrespect of any information processing terminal, registration of thisthird identification information was performed correctly, said softwareis executed under the ordinary operating environment, but, if aregistration result is received to the effect that said registration wasnot performed correctly, said software is executed under a restrictedoperating environment.

[0028] A server according to the present invention which achieves thethird object is connected through a network with a plurality ofinformation processing terminals that read prescribed software that isrecorded on an information recording medium and execute this, andmanages the operating environment of processing at these informationprocessing terminals; it mutually associates and stores registrationinformation including first identification information individuallyallocated to each information processing terminal, second identificationinformation allocated beforehand to each type of software, and thirdidentification information allocated to each said information recordingmedium in respect of software of the same type such that there is nooverlap; and it receives a registration condition confirmation requestincluding said first identification information and secondidentification information sent to this server by said informationprocessing terminal as a processing step prior to execution of thesoftware. As a result of looking up the registration information, ittransmits a first checking result to the effect that said software is tobe executed under the ordinary operating environment to the informationprocessing terminal, if the combination of said first identificationinformation and second identification information that is sent from saidinformation processing terminal coincides with registration information;if this combination does not exist, it sends to said informationprocessing terminal a second checking result seeking the registration ofthird identification information in respect of said informationprocessing terminal. If a registration request for this identificationinformation is received together with said third identificationinformation, it again looks up the registration condition, and, if saidthird identification information that was sent from the informationprocessing terminal is not associated and registered in respect of anyother information processing terminal, associates and registers thisthird identification information with this information processingterminal and sends a first registration result to this informationprocessing terminal to the effect that the software is to be executedunder the ordinary operating environment; and, if said thirdidentification information is associated and registered in respect ofsome other information processing terminal, or if at least any one ofsaid first identification information, second identification informationor third identification information contains abnormality, sends to theinformation processing terminal a second registration result to theeffect that said software is to be executed under a restricted operatingenvironment.

[0029] As a preferred mode of the present invention, a server receives aregistration condition confirmation request including firstidentification information, second identification information and thirdidentification information sent to this server by an informationprocessing terminal as a processing step prior to execution of thesoftware; as a result of looking up said registration information, ittransmits a checking result to the effect that said software is to beexecuted under the ordinary operating environment to said informationprocessing terminal, if the combination of said first identificationinformation, second identification information and third identificationinformation that is sent from said information processing terminalcoincides with registration information; if this combination does notexist, if said third identification information is not associated andregistered in respect of any other information processing terminal, itassociates and registers this third identification information with thisinformation processing terminal and sends a first registration result tosaid information processing terminal to the effect that the software isto be executed under the ordinary operating environment; and, if saidthird identification information is associated and registered in respectof some other information processing terminal, or if at least any one ofsaid first identification information, second identification informationor third identification information contains abnormality, it sends tosaid information processing terminal a second registration result to theeffect that said software is to be executed under a restricted operatingenvironment.

[0030] A recording medium according to the present invention forachieving the above fourth object is a recording medium for a terminalor a recording medium for a server on which is recorded a procedure tocause a computer to function as an information processing terminal or asa server according to the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031]FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a game device according toan embodiment;

[0032]FIG. 2 is a detailed functional block diagram of a game deviceaccording to an embodiment;

[0033]FIG. 3 is a view given in explanation of generation of licenseinformation;

[0034]FIG. 4 is a view or given in explanation of restoration of licenseinformation;

[0035]FIG. 5 is an overall flow chart of when license checking isperformed;

[0036]FIG. 6 is a flow chart of license checking;

[0037]FIG. 7 is a layout diagram of a complete information processingsystem;

[0038]FIG. 8 is a table of registration information managed by a server;

[0039]FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing processing procedures of the gamedevice and the server;

[0040]FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing processing procedures of the gamedevice and the server; and

[0041]FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing processing procedures of the gamedevice and the server.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0042] Embodiment 1

[0043] This embodiment relates to a technique whereby prescribed programprocessing content that is stored on the same information recordingmedium is changed as a result of license checking (for example, theprocessing content is changed so as to provide either a product versionor a demo version). This embodiment is described below with reference toFIG. 1 to FIG. 6.

[0044] [Construction of the Game Device]

[0045] The construction of a game device 1 is described in outline withreference to FIG. 1. A game device 1 comprises: main CPU 101, RAM 102,ROM 103, CD I/F 180, cartridge I/Fs 1 a, 1 b, and PAT I/F 2 a. When gamedevice 1 is started up, an initial program for initialization processingthat is stored on ROM 103 is started up. Also, an ID memory region 103 ais secured in a prescribed recording region in ROM 103. In ID memoryregion 103 a, there is stored identification information of game device1 (for example, characteristic information of game device 1, such as itsserial number). Main CPU 101 is connected to RAM 102 and ROM 103 throughinternal bus 105, and performs various control operations and/orcalculation processing etc. Also, main CPU 101 reads and executes aprogram that is stored on CD ROM 3 through CD I/F 180 and internal bus105. CD I/F 180 is the I/O interface of CD ROM 3. Main CPU 101 employsRAM 102 as a work area, and executes a game program in accordance withinput data supplied from a control pad 2 b through PAD I/F 28. The rolein this embodiment of back-up memory 4 and modem cartridge 7 will bedescribed later.

[0046] Next, the construction of game device 1 will be described indetail with reference to FIG. 2. Game device 1 is constituted by CPUblock 10 that performs control of the game device 1 as a whole, videoblock 11 that performs display control of the game screen, sound block12 that generates effects sounds etc., and sub-system 13 that performsreading of CD ROM 3, etc.

[0047] CPU block 10 comprises an SCU (System Control Unit) 100, main CPU101, RAM 102, ROM 103, cartridge I/F 1 a, sub CPU 104, and CPU bus 105etc.

[0048] Main CPU 101 exercises control over the device as a whole. Thismain CPU 101 is provided internally with a calculation functionidentical with a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), so that it can executeapplication software at high speed. RAM 102 is employed as a workingarea of main CPU 101. ROM 103 is divided into an ID memory region 103 adescribed in FIG. 1 and a region in which is stored an initial programfor initialization processing and/or a program for executing variousother types of control.

[0049] SCU 100 controls buses 105, 106 and 107 so as to perform datainput/output between main CPU 101, VDPs 120, 130, DSP 140 and CPU 141etc. in a smooth manner. Also, SCU 100 is provided in its interior witha DMA controller that is capable of transferring to a VRAM in videoblock 11 sprite data in the game. In this way, application software of agame etc. can be executed at high speed. Bus 106 is connected tocartridge I/Fs 1 a, 1 b. Modem cartridge 7 is connected to cartridge I/F1 a, and thereby acquires license information from host terminal 6 atthe licenser end. The license information is stored in back-up memory 4through cartridge IF 1 b under the control of SCU 100.

[0050] Apart from a “+” key, control pad 2 b is provided with keys A B Cand X Y Z. Sub CPU 104 is called an SMPC (System Manager & PeripheralControl) and is provided with functions including that of collectingoutput data such as A B C keys from control pad 2 b through PAD I/F 2 ain response to requests from main CPU 101.

[0051] It should be noted that not just a control pad 2 b but anydesired peripheral including for example a joystick or a keyboard couldbe connected to PAT I/F 2 a. Also, sub CPU 104 is provided with afunction of automatically recognizing the type of peripheral connectedto PAT I/F 2 a (main unit terminal) and of collecting peripheral dataetc. by a communication system dependent on the type of peripheral.

[0052] Video block 11 comprises a VDP (Video Display Processor) 120 thatperforms the drawing of characters etc. consisting of polygon data of avideo game, and a VDP 130 that performs drawing of a background screenand synthesis and clipping processing of polygon image data andbackground images. VDP 120 is connected to VRAM 131 and frame buffers122, 123. Polygon drawing data representing the characters of the videogame device is sent from main CPU 101 through SCU 100 to VDP 120, and iswritten in VRAM 121. The drawing data that is written in VRAM 12 1 isdrawn to a frame buffer 122 or 123 for drawing in for example 16bit/pixel form. The data of frame buffer 122 or 123 that is thus drawnis sent to VDP 130. Information to control the drawing is sent from mainCPU 101 through SCU 100 to VDP 120. VDP 120 then executes drawingprocessing in accordance with these instructions.

[0053] VDP 130 is connected to VRAM 131 and has a construction wherebydrawing data that is output from VDP 130 is output to encoder 160through memory 132.

[0054] Encoder 160 generates a video signal by adding a synchronizationsignal etc. to this image data, and outputs this to television receiver5.

[0055] Sound block 12 comprises a DSP 140 that performs audio synthesisin accordance with the PCM system or FM system, and a CPU 141 thatperforms control etc. of this DSP 140. The audio data that is generatedby DSP 140 is converted to a 2-channel signal by D/A converter 170,before being output to speaker 5 b.

[0056] Sub system 13 comprises a CD ROM drive 1 b, CD I/F 180 F. CPU181, MPEG AUDIO 182, and MPEG VIDEO 183 etc. This sub system 13 isequipped with functions to perform for example reading of applicationsoftware supplied in the form of a CD ROM, and to perform reproductionof video. CD ROM drive 1 b reads data from the CD ROM. CPU 181 performscontrol of the CD ROM drive 1 b, and processing such as error correctionof the data that is thus read. The data that is read from the CD ROM issupplied to main CPU 101 through CD I/F 180, bus 106, and SCU 100, andis utilized as application software. Also, MPEG AUDIO 182 and MPEG VIDEO183 are devices that restore data that has been compressed in accordancewith the MPEG (Motion Picture Expert Group) standard.

[0057] Video reproduction on television receiver 5 can be performed byperforming restoration of the MPEG compressed data that is written inCD-R2 shown in FIG. 1 using MPEG AUDIO 182 and MPEG VIDEO 183.

[0058] [Explanation of the Operation of the Game Device]

[0059] Next, an explanation of the operation of game device 1 will begiven. When the user inserts a CD ROM 3 attached to a magazinesupplement or like that he has purchased in a game device 1 to use this,CD ROM 3 first of all functions as the demo version. If the game on CDROM 3 of this demo version appeals to the user, so that he wishes to usethe product version, he requests a license from the licenser. In thiscase, the user transmits to the licenser the characteristic serialnumber of game device 1 and the product number of the game software, sothat the necessary approval can be given. Also, the period of use andthe use conditions etc. of the game program (for example, if the gamesoftware is to function as the product version, restrictive conditionsetc. in regard to game program processing) are determined in the form ofan agreement. When this is done, license information is supplied fromthe licenser to the user. This license information includes informationto the effect that a license for the game software is granted, and, inaddition, information specifying the period of use of the game programand/or use conditions etc. (license content information). The period ofuse of the game program and/or the conditions of use on game device 1are restricted in accordance with this license content information.Also, this license information is information that is uniquelydetermined from the combination of the identification information ofgame device 1 and the identification information of the game software;even if the game software is the same, different license informationwould be supplied to a different game device. In other words, thelicense information is different for each game device and is differentfor each game software.

[0060] The license information is stored in back-up memory 4 byoperation of the user's control pad 2 b. However, regarding the type oflicense information that exists, since this is determined by the numberof combinations of game device 1 and CD ROM 3, the amount of suchinformation may be very large. Consequently, apart from the user himselfstoring the license information in back-up memory 4 by operation ofcontrol pad 2 b, data input may also be effected from the host terminal6 of the licenser through a communication circuit and modem cartridge 7.Preferably, in the transmission of this license information,transmission is effected in encrypted fashion, in order to preventillicit use by a third party. It is also possible for the user to sendidentification information of game device 1 and identificationinformation of CD ROM 3 to the licenser through the control circuit. Ifthis is done, the aforesaid identification information can betransmitted to the licenser without letting the user know theidentification information, by encrypting these two items ofidentification information.

[0061] Back-up memory 4 may be utilized for saving game data, inaddition to the license information.

[0062] Furthermore, CD ROM 3 may store beforehand, apart from the gameprogram, a license information confirmation program. This licenseinformation confirmation program is a program for determining, based onthe identification information of game device 1, identificationinformation of CD ROM 3, and license information supplied by thelicenser, whether CD ROM 3 is to function as the demo version or is tofunction as the product version. For example the serial number can beused as the identification information of game device 1. In this case, anumerical code of any desired number of digits could be used as theidentification information, but, not restricted to this, a combinationwith any desired letter code could also be employed. The same applies tothe identification information of CD ROM 3.

[0063] Next, a procedure for generating and decoding license informationwill be described with reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. FIG. 3 is adiagram of a procedure for generating license information using a publickey encryption system and FIG. 4 is a diagram of a procedure fordecoding the license information and comparing it with a license.

[0064] (Procedure for Generating License Information)

[0065] As described above, the licenser who issues the licensedetermines the license content such as the period of use and useconditions of the game program in the agreement with the user. Theinformation of the license content (32-bit binary data) is defined incorrespondence with this license content. The data format of theinformation of the license content is determined beforehand in aprescribed form, such as that for example the most significant bits 32to 29 determine the period of use of the game program while theremaining bits 28 to 1 determine the license content, such as theconditions of use of the game program.

[0066] In order to generate the license information, as shown in FIG. 3,96-bit information (hereinbelow called “combined information”) isgenerated by combining identification information of game device 1 (32bits), identification information of CD ROM 3 (32 bits) and informationof license content (32 bits). This combined information could bedirectly sent to the user, but, preferably, in order to ensure secrecyof the license information, is sent in encrypted form. In thisembodiment, the license information is obtained by encrypting thecombined information using a secret key of an RSA encryption system (RSAcrypto system). The license information which is thus obtained istransmitted to game device 1 through a communication circuit etc.

[0067] If the plain text of the combined information is represented by Mand the cipher text of the license information is represented by C, asecret key and a public key can be found as follows.

[0068] Choosing two large prime numbers p and q, their product n=pq isfound. By choosing an integer e that is below (p−1) (q−1) and ismutually prime with respect to (p−1) (q−1), an integer d can be foundthat satisfies:

e×d≡1 mod((p−1)(q−1))

[0069] When this is done, (e, n) is a public key and (d, n) is a secretkey.

[0070] In order to obtain the license information (cipher text C) byencrypting the combined information (plain text M) by the secret key,the calculation:

C=M ^(d) mod n

[0071] is performed. On the other hand, in order to obtain the combinedinformation (plain text M) by decoding the license information (ciphertext C) by the public key, the calculation:

M=C ^(e) mod n

[0072] is performed. In this embodiment, the public key is recordedbeforehand in ROM 103 of game device 1 or on CD ROM 3, and the secretkey is privately held by the licenser. In order to find the secret keyfrom the public key, it would be necessary to find p and q by primefactor decomposition of n, but, in fact, p and q are determined to be afew hundred bits, so, since prime factor decomposition of such anenormous number is currently incapable of execution within a practicabletime, it is practically impossible to find the secret key. Illicitdiversion of the license information can thereby be effectivelyprevented.

[0073] (Procedure for Restoration of the License Information)

[0074] As shown in FIG. 4, the license information is decoded by thepublic key which is recorded beforehand on ROM 103 of game device 1 oron CD ROM 3. The combined information is restored by this decoding. Theidentification information of game device 1 is stored in the mostsignificant 96 to 65 bits of the restored combined information; theidentification information of CD ROM 3 is stored in the middle 64 to 33bits, and the information of the license content is stored in the leastsignificant 32 to 1 bits. License checking is performed using theserespective items of information.

[0075] (License Checking Procedure)

[0076] The license checking procedure is described with reference toFIG. 5 and FIG. 6. CD ROM 3 on which is stored the game software isinserted into game device 1 (step A1). Main CPU 101 detects the factthat CD ROM 3 has been inserted through CD I/F 180, and reads thecontent of back-up memory (step A2). It then ascertains whether or notlicense information has been written into a prescribed storage region ofthe back-up memory (step A3); if license information has been writtentherein (step A3: YES), it performs license checking (step A4). If, as aresult of the license checking, it determines that this is to functionas the product version (step A5: YES), main CPU 101 then causes CD ROM 3to function as the product version (step A6).

[0077] The various processing steps of license checking in step A4 willnow be described with reference to FIG. 6. First of all, theidentification information stored in ID memory region 103 a of gamedevice 1 and the identification information stored in the mostsignificant 96 to 65 bits of the combined information restored by thepublic key are compared (step B1). Next, the identification informationstored in a prescribed recording region of CD ROM 3 and the informationstored in the intermediate 64 to 33 bits of the combined information arecompared (step B2). Next, the license content information, which isstored in the least significant 32 to 1 bits of the combined informationis read, and this is interpreted (step B3).

[0078] In step A5, a decision is made as follows on the basis of theresults of execution of these processing steps (step B1 to step B3). Ifthe identification information of game device 1 and the respectiveidentification information of CD ROM 3 coincide, CD ROM 3 is made tofunction as the product version in accordance with the information ofthe license content. On the other hand, if the identificationinformation of game device 1 and any of the items of identificationinformation of CD ROM 3 do not coincide, or, if information to theeffect that execution of the game program is restricted (information tothe effect that this is to be made to function as a demo version) iswritten in the license content information, CD ROM 3 is made to functionas demo version (1) (step A7: first restriction processing). As thecontent of this first restriction processing, there may be suitably setfor example various restrictions concerning the number of stages of thegame program, restrictions concerning the number of characters thatappear, restrictions concerning the operation processing of thecharacters, or restrictions regarding game time etc.

[0079] On the other hand, if no license information is written inback-up memory 4 (step A3: NO), main CPU 101 causes CD ROM 3 to functionas the demo version (2) (step A8: second restriction processing). Thissecond restriction processing is performed for example when the user haspurchased CD ROM 3 and executes the game program by inserting this intogame device 1 for the first time. Thus, the first restriction processingand second restriction processing could be different processing or couldhave the same processing content.

[0080] Apart from being stored in a prescribed storage region of CD ROM3, the license information confirmation program may be stored in aprescribed storage region of ROM 103 for each game program.

[0081] Also, as the public key code, apart from RSA encryption, therecould be employed McLeish encryption, utilizing the difficulty of codefor error correction, Elgamel code utilizing the difficulty oflogarithmic calculation in a remainder calculation etc., MI encryptionutilizing the difficulty of solving multi-variable multi-dimensionalsimultaneous equations, or elliptic encryption etc. in which RSAencryption is reconstructed by using calculation defined on anelliptical curve.

[0082] Thus, as described above, with this embodiment, media on whichidentical information is recorded can be made to function as the productversion in accordance with the license information or as the demoversion; thus, there is no need to create a demo version separate fromthe product version, thereby enabling production costs to be lowered.Furthermore, from the point of view of the licenser, there is no need todistinguish the product version from the demo version in inventorymanagement, so inventory management is simplified. Also, from the pointof view of the user, there is the advantage that the demo version gamesoftware can be immediately used as the product version by acquiring thelicense information. There is therefore no need to wait for delivery ofthe product version.

[0083] Furthermore, since the license information is different for eachgame device and is different for each item of game software, it ispossible to prevent illicit use of game software, since, even for thesame game software item, its use can be prevented on a game device inrespect of which a license has not been obtained. That is, illicit useby a third party using an illicit copy of the license information can beeffectively prevented by employing license checking of theidentification information of the game device.

[0084] Also, by writing license information in externally attachedback-up memory, it is possible to allocate different back-up memory todifferent items of game software, so that the game software items can beused together in integrated fashion. In this way, there is no need forthe game device to store license information for each item of gamesoftware, thereby making it possible to utilize hardware resources moreeffectively. In particular, this is effective when the licenseinformation comprises a large amount of data. Also, game data can besaved in free capacity of the back-up memory.

[0085] Also, secrecy of the identification information can be ensured bytransmitting the identification information in encrypted form when theidentification information of the game device and the game software isrespectively transmitted to the licenser. Specifically, with thisembodiment, a security system can be constructed that prevents illicituse of game software.

[0086] The information recording medium on which the game software isrecorded is not restricted to being a CD ROM but my be for example agame cartridge, CD-R, DVD ROM, DVD RAM, ROM cartridge, magneto-opticdisc, magnetic tape, or RAM cartridge with a battery back-up, flashmemory cartridge, or non-volatile memory cartridge. Also, it could be acommunication medium such as a wired communication medium such as atelephone circuit or a wireless communication medium such as a microwavecircuit. The Internet is also included in communication media asreferred to herein.

[0087] Also, although, in this embodiment, a game device has beendescribed as an example of an information processing device, there is norestriction to game devices, and the design could be suitably modifiedfor for example CD reproduction devices, LD reproduction devices, orvideo reproduction devices etc.

[0088] Embodiment 2.

[0089] This embodiment relates to a technique whereby, by utilizing acommunication system, it is decided whether a game recording medium isbeing employed on the user's own game device or is being employed onanother game device, and the setting of the content of game programprocessing is altered in accordance with the result of this decisionThis is achieved by centralized management on a server of thecorrespondence relationship of the game device (information processingterminal) and the game program (i.e. the game program which is recordedon the game recording medium. This may also be simply referred to as the“software” or “application”.). This embodiment is described below withreference to FIG. 7 to FIG. 11.

[0090]FIG. 7 is a layout diagram of the entire information processingsystem (also referred to as “security system”). Game device 1 isconnected to a server 9 through a modem cartridge 7 and network 8. Agame device 1 and modem cartridge 7 are of the same construction as inthe case of Embodiment 1. Network 8 is a communication network and mayinclude a dedicated line such as an ISDN circuit or a public circuit.Server 9 is connected to network 8 by means of modem 71 and is arrangedto be capable of connection with a plurality of game devices 1 throughthe same network. Also, a server 9 holds a large-capacity data base 20and manages the operating environment of game devices 1 and furthermoresets their operating environments by deciding whether or not the gamerecording medium is being processed solely on the user's own gamedevice, by using various registration information that is registered indatabase 20. The details of the registration information will bedescribed later. Also, server 9 is capable of implementing the aforesaiddecision in respect of the individual game devices 1 by communicationwith the plurality of game devices 1.

[0091] Game device 1 comprises internally a main CPU 101, RAM 102, ROM103, CD I/F 180, and cartridge I/Fs 1 a, 1 b etc. A software ID andsoftware SN (serial number) are allocated beforehand to the game programthat is stored on CD ROM 3. In this specification, the “software ID” isdefined as identification information that is allocated to each gametitle (each type of game software). For example, software ID “001011”may be allocated in respect of game A, while software ID “110010”, . . .may be allocated in respect of game B. Thus, even though the gamerecording medium may be different, if the game title is the same, thesame game ID will be allocated. Also, the software SN is defined asidentification information that is allocated to each game recordingmedium, for games of the same title. There will therefore exist a numberof software SNs equal in number to the number of game recording media.For example, software SN “10110111” may be allocated to the gamesoftware recorded on game recording medium A while software SN“10111000”, . . . , is allocated to the game software stored on gamerecording medium B. Also, as already described with reference toEmbodiment 1, individual identification information is stored on eachgame device 1 in ID memory region 103 a of ROM 103 (in this embodiment,this is referred to as the game device ID). As these items ofidentification information, any desired letter code such as numerals,letters of the alphabet, or symbols could be employed.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 8, in data base 20 of server 9, the software IDof the game program that was the subject of game execution processing ineach game device and the software SN are mutually associated andregistered in the form of a table. This table 21 is defined as theregistration information. The registration information may be registeredlinked with play data in each game program. The “play data” meansvarious types of setting information for when the user plays the game,such as for example information regarding the number of stages that theuser has cleared, points acquired, or playing time etc.

[0093] Next, the processing steps of the present invention will bedescribed with reference to FIG. 9. This Figure shows the processingsteps that are respectively performed by the game device and the server.When the power source of game device 1 is connected to start up the gamedevice, game device 1 is connected with server 9 (step C1) by a pre-setprocedure. Server 9 then enters registration information confirmationmode and goes into a condition waiting for external input. Whenconnection is completed, game device 1 reads the game device ID from IDmemory region 103 a, and reads the software ID from the game recordingmedium. Also, it sends the game device ID and software ID to server 9and makes a request for confirmation of the registration information(step C2). A request for confirmation of registration information meansan inquiry of the server as to whether or not the game device ID andsoftware ID coincide, so as to confirm whether the game program that isregistered on the game recording medium is being used solely in respectof the user's own game device or is being used on another game device.Server 9 receives the game device ID and software ID (step D1), andchecks these with the registration information that is registered indata base 20 (step D2).

[0094] If, as a result of the checking it, it is found that thecombination of the game device ID and software ID that is transmittedfrom game device 1 coincides with the registration information that isregistered in data base 20 (step D3: YES), this checking result istransmitted to game device 1 (step D4), and registration informationconfirmation mode is terminated (step D5). On the other band, if thecombination of game device ID and software ID that is transmitted fromgame device 1 is not registered in data base 20 (step D3: NO), achecking result to that effect is transmitted to game device 1 (stepD6).

[0095] When game device 1 receives the checking result that istransmitted from server 9 (step C3), it decides whether the game deviceID and software ID are registered or are not registered (step C4). Ifthey are registered i.e. if the user is a registered user (step C4:YES), game processing is performed under the ordinary operatingenvironment (step C9).

[0096] In contrast, if it is not registered (step C4: NO), game device 1requests the user to input the software SN, transmits this software SNthat is thus input to server 9, and requests registration of thesoftware SN (step C5). When server 9 receives the software SN (step D7),it registers this in data base 20 (step D8). When this is done, if thesoftware SN cannot be properly registered, for a reason such as that thesoftware SN is already registered in respect of another game device(step D9: NO), this registration result is transmitted to game device 1(step D10), and registration information confirmation mode is terminated(step D11). On the other hand, if it proves possible to register thesoftware SN correctly in the database (step D9: YES), the registrationreport to that effect is transmitted to game device 1 (step D 12), andregistration information confirmation mode is terminated (step D 13).

[0097] When game device 1 receives the registration result that istransmitted from server 9 (step C6), it decides whether registration hasbeen performed correctly or not (step C7). If registration has beencorrectly performed i.e. if the user is a newly registered user (stepC7: YES), game processing is performed under the operating environmentthat is set beforehand for newly registered users (step C10). Gameprocessing under an operating environment that is set for newlyregistered users may include for example display on the screen of amessage to the effect that a new registration has been performed; orprocessing to display messages to the effect that if a game recordingmedium used in another game device is employed in the user's own gamedevice, the operating environment settings may be altered, or to urgecaution in that the game must not be played by obtaining a software SNetc. by illicit means. Of course, such processing could be dispensedwith, and the same processing as in the case of ordinary game processing(step C9) could be performed.

[0098] In contrast, when registration has not been performed correctly(step C7: NO), game processing is conducted under the restrictedoperating environment (step C8). A restricted operating environmentmeans for example that setting is effected such that the number of gamestages is decreased, effects sounds are eliminated, operation of theplayer characters is slowed down, or the playing time is shortened, . .. , etc. Also, as a restricted game, it may be arranged for a previouslyprepared demo version of the game to be executed.

[0099] Consequently, according to the present invention, since it ispossible to decide, by using a server to manage registration informationof all the game devices, whether the game recording medium is beingemployed in the user's own game device or is being employed in anothergame device, it is possible to prevent processing, by illicit means suchas rewriting the identification information, whereby a game recordingmedium that was employed in another game device is employed as if itwere used solely in the user's own game device. In particular, whereas,with the technique of Laid-open Japanese Patent Publication No. H.11-53183, management of the game recording media must be performedindividually, making control of illicit actions difficult, with thepresent invention, thanks to the use of registration informationaccumulated in a data base, control of all the game recording media caneasily be performed.

[0100] Also, when the user uses a new game program, the game device IDand software ID and software SN are automatically associated andregistered, so if a third party employs a game device that had been usedin another user's game device in his own game device, the registrationinformation will not coincide at the server end, so the operatingenvironment of the game can be made to be restricted.

[0101] Furthermore, little trouble is required in the event ofredistribution in the market of so-called second-hand products, since itsuffices simply to rewrite the registration information registered inthe data base, or to issue a fresh software SN. It is also possible tocollect a fee from the user to rewrite the registration information.

[0102] Also, although, in the above description, the game device ID wasemployed as the identification information of the game device, anyidentification information allocated to each user which is mutuallydifferent between users could be employed such as for example a user ID(user's individual number) issued by the server manager, or even atelephone number.

[0103] It should be noted that, although, in the above examples, whenthe registration information of the database was checked, game device 1sent only the game device ID and software ID to server 9, it could bearranged for the transmission to include simultaneously the software SN.FIG. 10 shows the respective processing steps executed by game device 1and server 9 in these circumstances. The basic processing steps are thesame as the processing steps shown in FIG. 9. When the game device 1 isstarted up, connection to server 9 is effected (step E1) by apredetermined procedure. Then, the game device ID, software ID andsoftware SN are sent to server 9 and registration informationconfirmation is requested (step E2). For the software SN, that directlyinput by the user when game device 1 was started up is employed. Server9 receives the game device ID, software ID and software SN (step F1) andchecks the database (step F2). When checking data base 20, it would besatisfactory to simply check the game device ID and software ID asdescribed in the previous embodiment, but it is also possible to effectlook-up and checking using a combination of game device ID, software IDand software SN. If, as a result of the checking, it is found that thesoftware ID and software SN of the game recording medium agree with thecombination of game device ID (step F3: YES), this checking result issent to game device 1 (step F6), and the registration conditionconfirmation mode terminates normally (step F9).

[0104] On the other hand, if the software ID or software SN isunregistered in respect of the game device ID (step F3: NO), this isregistered in database 20 (step F4). If the software S is not associatedand registered in respect of any other game device (step F5: YES), thesoftware SN is then associated and registered with the game device 1 inquestion, and this registration result is transmitted to game device 1(step F7). If, because of a reason such as that the software SN has beenassociated and registered in respect of any other game device, correctregistration of the software SN cannot be achieved (step F5: NO), thisregistration result is sent to game device 1 (step F8), and theregistration information confirmation mode is terminated (step F10).

[0105] When game device 1 receives the checking result or registrationresult from server 9 (step E3), it evaluates this checking result orregistration result. If the combination of game ID, software ID andsoftware SN agrees i.e. if the user is a registered user (step E4: YES),ordinary game processing is performed (step E5). On the other hand, inthe case of an unregistered user (step E4: NO), if registration of thesoftware SN is performed normally i.e. in the case of a newly registereduser (step E6: YES), game processing is performed under the operatingenvironment that is set beforehand for newly registered users (step E7).Game processing under the operating environment that is set for newlyregistered users is the same as described above, but could be identicalwith that of ordinary game processing (step E5).

[0106] Also, if the software SN cannot be associated and registered withthe game device ID of the user's game device (step E6: NO), due toreasons such as the user not being registered (step E4: NO), thesoftware SN being registered to another game device, or suspicion thatthe software SN has been input by illicit means (where the number oftimes of input of the software SN is more than necessary) etc., gameprocessing is performed under the restricted operating environment (stepE8).

[0107] Although, in the above description, in the processing step of thegame device 1, the software SN that was input by the user was employedin transmission of the software SN to server 9, it would be possible toarrange for the software SN, software ID and game device ID to be storedbeforehand in back-up memory, these being then read by game device 1 andtransmitted to server 9. The processing step of game device 1 in thiscase is shown in FIG. 11. When the game device 1 is started up, gamedevice 1 checks back-up memory 4 (step G1). If the game device ID,software ID and software SN are not written therein (step G2: NO), gamedevice 1 writes the game device ID, software ID and software SN inback-up memory 4 (step G3) and connects to server 9 (step G4). And ifthe game device ID, software ID and software SN are written therein(step G2: YES), connection is effected to server 9 (step G4). Whenconnection to server 9 is completed, the data in back-up memory 4 (gamedevice ID, software ID and software SN) are sent to server 9, and arequest for registration information confirmation is made (step G5).Subsequently, the processing of step E3 to step E6 of FIG. 10 isexecuted.

[0108] When the game device ID, software ID and software SN aretransmitted from the game device to the server, the construction may besuch that transmission of these items of identification information iseffected in pre-encoded form using RSA encryption, McLeish encryption,Elgamel coding, or MI encryption.

[0109] Also, although, in this embodiment, a game device was describedas an example of an information processing terminal, this could beapplied not merely to game devices but also to CD reproduction devices,LD reproduction devices, or video reproduction devices etc., by makingsuitable design modifications.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0110] With the information processing device and information processingmethod according to the present invention, it is possible to alter theprocessing content of a program that is stored on the same informationrecording medium by a simple arrangement. Consequently, there is no needto manufacture information recording media for each function, therebymaking it possible to lower production costs. Also, illicit use of theinformation recording media by third parties can be effectivelyprevented.

[0111] Furthermore, with an information processing system, informationprocessing terminal and server according to the present invention, by asimple arrangement, it is possible to ascertain whether or not thesoftware that is recorded on the information recording medium is beingprocessed by the user's own information processing terminal, and toalter the content of processing of the software in accordance with theresult that is thus found. In particular, since the registrationinformation of all the information processing terminals is managed bythe server, it is possible to prevent illicit actions by tampering etc.with the identification information, and it is possible to alter thesetting of the operating environment at each information processingterminal by for example rewriting the registration information.

[0112] Also, with a recording medium for a terminal or recording mediumfor a server according to the present invention, a computer can be madeto function as an information processing terminal or server according tothe present invention.

1. An information processing device that reads information recorded onan information recording medium and performs prescribed informationprocessing, comprising: first means for storage that stores firstidentification information that is individual to said informationprocessing device; means for reading second identification informationthat is individual to said information recording medium; second meansfor storage that stores prescribed information including operationrestriction of said information recording medium, third identificationinformation individual to some information processing device, and fourthidentification information individual to some information recordingmedium; and means for restricting the operation content of saidinformation recording medium when said first identification informationand said third identification information coincide and said secondidentification information and said fourth identification informationcoincide, in accordance with said prescribed information; and forrestricting the operation content of said information recording mediumunder a predetermined condition when said first identificationinformation and said third identification information do not coincide orsaid second identification information and said fourth identificationinformation do not coincide.
 2. The information processing device ofclaim 1 wherein said prescribed information is information thatdetermines the period of use or condition of use etc. of saidinformation recording medium.
 3. The information processing device ofclaim 1 or claim 2 wherein said prescribed information, said thirdidentification information and said fourth identification informationare sent to said information processing device from a prescribedterminal device through a communication circuit.
 4. The informationprocessing device of claim 3 wherein said prescribed information, saidthird identification information and said fourth identificationinformation are sent to said information processing device in encryptedform.
 5. The information processing device of any of claims 1 to 4wherein said second means for storage is a portable recording mediumexternally mounted on said information processing device.
 6. Theinformation processing device of claim 5 wherein said externally mountedportable recording medium is back-up memory.
 7. The informationprocessing device of any of claims 1 6 wherein said informationrecording medium is an information recording medium on which a gameprogram is stored.
 8. An information processing method for readinginformation stored on an information recording medium and performingprescribed information processing comprising the steps of: storing thefirst identification information individual to said informationprocessing device; reading second identification information individualto said information storage medium; storing prescribed informationincluding an operation restriction of said information recording medium,third identification information individual to some informationprocessing device, and fourth identification information individual tosome information recording medium; and restricting the operation contentof said information recording medium when said first identificationinformation and said third identification information coincide and saidsecond identification information and said fourth identificationinformation coincide, in accordance with said prescribed information;and restricting the operation content of said information recordingmedium under a predetermined condition when said first identificationinformation and said third identification information do not coincide orsaid second identification information and said fourth identificationinformation do not coincide.
 9. The information processing method ofclaim 8 wherein said prescribed information is information determiningthe period of use or condition of use etc. of said information recordingmedium.
 10. The information processing method of claim 8 or claim 9wherein said prescribed information, said third identificationinformation and said fourth identification information are sent to saidinformation processing device from a prescribed terminal device througha communication circuit.
 11. The information processing method of claim10 wherein said prescribed information, said third identificationinformation and said fourth identification information are sent to saidinformation processing device in encrypted form.
 12. The informationprocessing method of any one of claim 8 to claim 11 wherein said secondmeans for storage is a portable recording medium externally mounted onsaid information processing device.
 13. The information processingmethod of claim 12 wherein said externally mounted portable recordingmedium is back-up memory.
 14. The information processing method of anyone of claim 8 to claim 13 wherein said information recording medium isan information recording medium on which a game program is stored. 15.An information recording medium capable of being read by a computerwherein is stored a program to cause the computer to execute aninformation processing method of claim
 8. 16. The information recordingmedium of claim 15 wherein said prescribed information is informationdetermining the period of use or condition of use etc. of saidinformation recording medium.
 17. The information recording medium ofclaim 15 or claim 16 wherein a game program is recorded in a prescribedrecording region.
 18. An information processing system comprising aplurality of information processing terminals that read prescribedsoftware recorded on information recording media and execute this, and aserver connected to said information processing terminals through anetwork and that manages the operating environment of processing at theinformation processing terminals, in which said server mutuallyassociates and stores registration information including firstidentification information that is individually allocated to eachinformation processing terminal, second identification information thatis allocated beforehand to each type of software, and thirdidentification information that is allocated to each said informationrecording medium in respect of software of the same type such that thereis no overlap; said information processing terminal, on executing thesoftware recorded on said information recording medium, transmits saidfirst identification information and second identification informationto the server and requests registration condition confirmation; uponreceiving said registration condition confirmation request, the serverlooks up the registration information, and, if a combination that hasbeen sent from said information processing terminal of said firstidentification information and second identification informationcoincides with the registration information, sends to said informationprocessing terminal a first checking result and sends a second checkingresult if said combination is not present; an information processingterminal that has received said first checking result executes saidsoftware under the ordinary operating environment, and an informationprocessing terminal that has received said second checking result sendssaid third identification information and requests the server toregister the third identification information; upon receiving thisregistration request, the server looks up once more the registrationcondition and, if said third identification information that has beentransmitted from the information processing terminal is not associatedand registered in respect of any other information processing terminal,associates and registers this third identification information with saidinformation processing terminal, and sends a first registration resultto said information processing terminal; and, if said thirdidentification information is associated and registered in respect ofany other information processing terminal, or if there is abnormality inat least any one of first information, second identification informationor third identification information, sends a second registration resultto said information processing terminal; and said information processingterminal, which has received the first registration result, executessaid software under the ordinary operating environment, and saidinformation processing terminal, which has received said secondregistration result, executes said software under a restricted operatingenvironment.
 19. An information processing system comprising a pluralityof information processing terminals that read prescribed softwarerecorded on information recording media and execute this, and a serverconnected to said information processing terminals through a network andthat manages the operating environment of processing at the informationprocessing terminals, in which said server mutually associates andstores registration information including first identificationinformation that is individually allocated to each informationprocessing terminal, second identification information that is allocatedbeforehand to each type of software, and third identificationinformation that is allocated to each said information recording mediumin respect of software of the same type such that there is no overlap;said information processing terminal, on executing the software recordedon said information recording medium, transmits said firstidentification information, second identification information and thirdidentification information to the server and requests registrationcondition confirmation; upon receiving said registration conditionconfirmation request, the server looks up the registration information,and, if a combination that has been sent from said informationprocessing terminal of said first identification information and secondidentification information coincides with the registration information,sends to said information processing terminal a checking result to thateffect and if said combination is not present, if said thirdidentification information is not associated and registered in respectof any other information processing terminal, associates and registersthis third identification information with said information processingterminal, and sends a first registration result to said informationprocessing terminal; and, if said third identification information isassociated and registered in respect of any other information processingterminal, or if there is abnormality in at least any one of firstinformation, second identification information or third identificationinformation, sends a second registration result to said informationprocessing terminal; and after it has said information processingterminal, which has received said checking result or first registrationresult, executes said software under the ordinary operating environment,and said information processing terminal, which has received said secondregistration result, executes said software under a restricted operatingenvironment.
 20. The information processing system of claim 18 or claim19 wherein said information processing terminal, when it sends saidthird identification information to the server, reads this thirdidentification information that has been stored beforehand in externalmemory, and sends this to the server.
 21. An information processingterminal that reads and executes prescribed software recorded on aninformation recording medium wherein, as a processing step prior toexecution of said software, registration information including firstidentification information allocated individually to the informationprocessing terminal, second identification information allocatedbeforehand to each type of software, and third identificationinformation allocated to each said information recording medium inrespect of software of the same type such that there is no overlap ismutually associated and stored, and said first identificationinformation and second identification information are sent and aregistration condition confirmation request is made to a serverconnected to this information processing terminal through a network, ifa checking result is received to the effect that the combination of saidfirst identification information and second identification informationcoincides with registration information managed by the server, saidsoftware is executed under the ordinary operating environment, if achecking result is received to the effect that this combination does notexist, third identification information is sent and a registrationrequest of the third identification information is made to the server,and if a registration result to the effect that registration wasperformed correctly is received, said software is executed under theordinary operating environment, but, if registration was not performedcorrectly, said software is executed under a restricted operatingenvironment.
 22. An information processing terminal that reads andexecutes prescribed software recorded on an information recording mediumwherein, as a processing step prior to execution of said software,registration information including first identification informationallocated individually to the information processing terminal, secondidentification information allocated beforehand to each type ofsoftware, and third identification information allocated to each saidinformation recording medium in respect of software of the same typesuch that there is no overlap is mutually associated and stored, andsaid first identification information, second identification informationand third identification information are sent and a registrationcondition confirmation request is made to a server connected to thisinformation processing terminal through a network, if a checking resultis received to the effect that the combination of said firstidentification information and second identification informationcoincides with registration information managed by the server, saidsoftware is executed under the ordinary operating environment, if aregistration result is received to the effect that, the thirdidentification information being unregistered in respect of anyinformation processing terminal, registration of this thirdidentification information was performed correctly, said software isexecuted under the ordinary operating environment, but, if aregistration result is received to the effect that said registration wasnot performed correctly, said software is executed under a restrictedoperating environment.
 23. A server which is connected through a networkwith a plurality of information processing terminals that readprescribed software that is recorded on an information recording mediumand execute this, and that manages the operating environment ofprocessing at these information processing terminals; which mutuallyassociates and stores registration information including firstidentification information individually allocated to each informationprocessing terminal, second identification information allocatedbeforehand to each type of software, and third identificationinformation allocated to each said information recording medium inrespect of software of the same type such that there is no overlap;which receives a registration condition confirmation request includingsaid first identification information and second identificationinformation sent to this server by said information processing terminalas a processing step prior to execution of the software; which, as aresult of looking up said registration information, transmits a firstchecking result to the effect that said software is to be executed underthe ordinary operating environment to said information processingterminal, if the combination of said first identification informationand second identification information that is sent from said informationprocessing terminal coincides with registration information; which, ifthis combination does not exist, sends to said information processingterminal a second checking result seeking the registration of thirdidentification information in respect of said information processingterminal; which, if a registration request for this identificationinformation is received together with said third identificationinformation, again looks up the registration condition, and, if saidthird identification information that was sent from the informationprocessing terminal is not associated and registered in respect of anyother information processing terminal, associates and registers thisthird identification information with this information processingterminal and sends a first registration result to said informationprocessing terminal to the effect that the software is to be executedunder the ordinary operating environment; and which, if said thirdidentification information is associated and registered in respect ofsome other information processing terminal, or if at least any one ofsaid first identification information, second identification informationor third identification information contains abnormality, sends to saidinformation processing terminal a second registration result to theeffect that said software is to be executed under a restricted operatingenvironment.
 24. A server which is connected through a network with aplurality of information processing terminals that read prescribedsoftware that is recorded on an information recording medium and executethis, and that manages the operating environment of processing at theseinformation processing terminals; which mutually associates and storesregistration information including first identification informationindividually allocated to each information processing terminal, secondidentification information allocated beforehand to each type ofsoftware, and third identification information allocated to each saidinformation recording medium in respect of software of the same typesuch that there is no overlap; which receives a registration conditionconfirmation request including said first identification information,second identification information and third identification informationsent to this server by said information processing terminal as aprocessing step prior to execution of the software; which, as a resultof looking up said registration information, transmits a checking resultto the effect that said software is to be executed under the ordinaryoperating environment to said information processing terminal, if thecombination of said first identification information, secondidentification information and third identification information that issent from said information processing terminal coincides withregistration information; which, if this combination does not exist, ifsaid third identification information is not associated and registeredin respect of any other information processing terminal, associates andregisters this third identification information with this informationprocessing terminal and sends a first registration result to saidinformation processing terminal to the effect that the software is to beexecuted under the ordinary operating environment; and which, if saidthird identification information is associated and registered in respectof some other information processing terminal, or if at least any one ofsaid first identification information, a second identificationinformation or third identification information contains abnormality,sends to said information processing terminal a second registrationresult to the effect that said software is to be executed under arestricted operating environment.
 25. A recording medium for a terminalon which is recorded a procedure to cause a computer to function as aninformation processing terminal according to claim 21 or claim
 22. 26. Arecording medium for a server on which is recorded a procedure to causea computer to function as a server according to claim 23 or claim 24.